Dr. William Dollente Dar, Secretary of Agriculture, along with Dr. Nestor Domenden, OIC RED of DA-RO 1, led the groundbreaking ceremony on July 22, 2021 for the P10-million swine multiplier farm.

The swine multiplier farm will serve as a learning center for students, provide extension support services, and lead in the enhancement of policy advocacies on the production of quality hogs for La Union and nearby provinces.

This project is part of Dar’s effort to promote the use of technology and encourage innovation for agricultural development, and commitment “to support the livestock and poultry industry and empower smallholder farmers, including micro, small, and medium-scale enterprises, throughout the food value chain.”

After the devastating effect of the African Swine Fever (ASF) outbreak last year, DMMMSU is expected to lead in the swine production in the province.

“This swine multiplier farm which Sec. Dar funded will help to increase the production of swine. Actually, swine production in DMMMSU through the DMMMSU Pig Extension and Research Farm (DPERF) was unaffected by the African Swine Fever; hence, our production continued,” President Jaime I. Manuel, Jr., said in an interview.

Dr. Chester Libong, DPERF Manager, explained that the farm will indirectly benefit feed millers, corn growers, meat processors, pig raisers, and other stakeholders in the livestock industry. (Ayu)

Photo credit: DA